It is with sadness and regret that I join others to announce the death of one of Kannywood’s renowned actor, Hajiya Saratu Gidado, popularly known as Daso by her fans around the world.
Her death came as a shock because she was not sick at all. She went to bed and slept off soundly last night as confirmed by her first son only for her to fail to show up today. She died in her sleep. Shocking really but for a Muslim, we know that death is inevitable and it can come calling any time. Inna lillahi wa ınna ilaihir rajiun.
Daso will be remembered as one of the most prolific and versatile actors in Nigeria who interpreted different role genres; comedy, tragedy, rigid our fluid. She was also fluent in her roles in both Hausa and English.
Daso can be likened only to Patience Ozokwo – Mama Gee in Nollywood.
Daso had been in the Motion Picture industry in Nigeria for at least 20 years and I had personally worked with her in several movies. She even stayed with my family in Jos while working on a movie I directed Dan-Gari. Her work ethics are remarkably professional. Her ability to grasp the complexity of a role was amazing. Interpretation of the role with her was magical.
Daso captivated hundreds of thousands of audiences often making a whole town to standstill or erupt in thunderous applause when she appears.
Daso tried to make an impact beyond the world of make belief by actively engaging in humanitarian services, gifting the less privileged in the society from her modest earnings or as intermediary between donors and the needy benefitiaries.
On behalf of my family and the Board of Trustees of MOPPAN, I wish to sincerely extend my condolences to her immediate family members, all practitioners based in Kano and the entire film industry in Nigeria for this huge loss. May Allah SWT grant us all the fortitude to bear this great loss.
May Allah SWT grant her His rahma with access to the Garden of eternal bliss Jannat Firdaus.
Ameen thumma ameen.
Makama Sani Mu’azu
